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What are my options for Sender ID?

Your Sender ID determines what appears as the "From" name or number when a message is received on your customer’s mobile device. Choosing the right Sender ID can influence trust, engagement, and deliverability.

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With Cellcast, you have four Sender ID options depending on your needs — whether you're looking for two-way messaging, brand recognition, or consistency across campaigns.

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1. Shared Number (Default)

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A rotating mobile number shared across Cellcast users. Ideal for fast setup and general messaging.

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Key Features:

  • Supports two-way messaging
  • Instantly available — no setup needed
  • Great for testing or smaller campaigns
  • Mobile number will vary

Cost: ✅ Free

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Best for:
✅ New users
✅ One-off campaigns
✅ Reply-required workflows

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 2. Dedicated Number

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A unique mobile number assigned to your account — exclusively yours. Enables a consistent experience across all campaigns.

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Key Features:

  • Supports full two-way SMS
  • Permanent mobile number
  • Keeps message threads consistent
  • Ideal for long-term brand identity

Cost: $18/month *

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Best for:
✅ Support lines
✅ Ongoing customer conversations
✅ Brand consistency

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3. Business Name (Alpha ID)

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Also known as Alphanumeric Sender ID, this allows you to display your brand name (e.g., "Cellcast") instead of a number.

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Key Features:

  • Increases brand recognition
  • Maximum 11 characters (no spaces)
  • One-way only – does not support replies

Cost:  Register Free

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Best for:
✅ Promotional or broadcast campaigns
✅ Brand building
✅ Notifications

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Note: Alpha ID is supported in Australia for SMS but is not available for MMS or in every country.

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 4. Custom Number (Bring Your Own)

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You can request to use your existing business mobile number as your Sender ID (subject to carrier approval).

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Key Features:

  • Maintain your current business number
  • Brand consistency across SMS and calls
  • Requires verification and provisioning

Cost: register Free
Carrier approval may take up to 5 business days.

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Best for:
✅ Businesses already using a single mobile contact
✅ Local brand presence

Summary Table

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Feature Shared Number Dedicated Number Business Name (Alpha ID) Custom Number
Supports Replies ✅ Yes ✅ Yes ❌ No ✅ Yes
Shows a Brand Name ❌ No ❌ No ✅ Yes ❌ No
Consistent Display ❌ No ✅ Yes ✅ Yes ✅ Yes
Setup Time Instant 1–2 days Instant 3–5 days
Cost Free $18/month* Free Free

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Which Sender ID Should I Use?
  • Want replies? → Choose Shared or Dedicated Number
  • Want branding? → Use Alpha ID or Custom Number
  • Want long-term customer conversations? → Go with a Dedicated Number
  • Already using a business mobile? → Consider Custom Number

Still unsure? Our support team is happy to guide you through the best fit for your use case.

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💬 Need Help?

📩 support@cellcast.com
☎️ Call Us
💬 Live Chat via your Cellcast dashboard

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